Explosives are used for construction, demolition, mining, military defense and amusement. Construction companies use various types of dynamite in order to implode large structures; mining companies use explosives to clear mine shafts and extract materials and fireworks are commonly used in large celebrations for entertainment purposes. Whether they are bombs, pyrotechnics, rockets or any type of combustible device, explosive materials must be handled very carefully, and it is important to be familiar with all categories of explosives. The following list of terms might help you develop a better understanding of explosives:

Primary Explosive: A type of extremely sensitive explosive that can detonate from friction, heat, electromagnetic radiation, impact or static electricity. Primary explosives are commonly used to ignite or trigger detonation of secondary explosives. Nitroglycerine is an example of a primary explosive.

Secondary Explosive: A kind of explosive that requires significantly more energy to detonate than a primary explosive. Secondary explosives are used more frequently than primary explosives because they are safer to store and handle than primary explosives. Common secondary explosives are RDX and TNT.

Tertiary Explosive: A type of explosive that is fairly insensitive to shock or energy. These explosives can be difficult to detonate, and are often used as trigger devices for primary explosives.

Low Explosive: An explosive that has a slow rate of decomposition. Low explosives burn without generating a high degree of pressure, and are preceded by flame rather than explosive shock. Examples of low explosives are pyrotechnic devices and gun powder.

High Explosive: An explosive that contains a high degree of explosive energy. High explosives detonate with supersonic combustion rather than subsonic combustion, meaning that the explosion is propagated through shock rather than flame.

Binary Explosive: An explosive that contains two non-explosive elements that, when combined, react in such a way that they become combustible.

Explosives are chemical substances that are packed in to steel columns during a demolition project. Although explosives are used for controlled demolition of buildings for construction purposes, other explosives are used for entertainment. For example, explosives can include dynamite and fireworks. When using explosives for construction clearing jobs, licensed demolition calculate how much explosive they will require to implode a building. When speaking with explosives dealers, both buyer and seller follow strict regulations. Technicians must provide proof of safe storage for the explosives before they are used. Explosives must be stored in a temperature-controlled area. Explosives and explosive materials involve chemicals, dynamite, tubes, and plates. Diesel, plastic wire, and acid may also be used for the detonation process. You will find safety gear related to explosives use when you look in your local phone book or search online directory listings. Consider your need and target your search for explosives suppliers accordingly. For example, if you need a batch of municipal fireworks and materials, contact dealers that specialize in fireworks and related equipment. Fireworks consist of explosives and combustibles, designed to give off brightly colored lights, smoke and noise. Fireworks can include bottle rockets, firecrackers, and sparklers. If you need industrial explosives, contact suppliers that offer related protective gear and transmitters.